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Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin with a non-stick spray or use muffin liners.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Add in the milk and mix until everything is well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon (if using).
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
- Add Fruit: Gently fold in the fruit of your choice. If you’re using blueberries or raspberries, be gentle so they don’t burst and turn the batter purple!
- Bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Low-Calorie Muffins:
- Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a little indulgence, while still keeping the calories in check.
- Portion Control: If you want to make your muffins even lower-calorie, consider making mini muffins to control portions.
- Flavor Variations: Switch up the flavor by adding cinnamon and nutmeg for a spiced version, or use mashed bananas as a natural sweetener for a tropical twist.
- Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Nutritional Benefits of Low-Calorie Muffins:
By using whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and applesauce, these muffins are packed with essential nutrients that make them a healthier option than traditional muffins. Here are some benefits:
- High in Fiber: Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Protein-Packed: Greek yogurt and egg whites add protein, helping to keep your muscles strong and supporting overall health.
- Low in Fat: By swapping out butter and oil for applesauce and Greek yogurt, these muffins are naturally low in fat, making them a better option for weight management.
- Natural Sweetness: Using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit helps keep the sugar content low without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion:
Low-calorie muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, filling treat without overindulging in sugar and fat. With the right ingredients and some clever substitutions, you can make muffins that are light on calories but big on flavor. Whether you prefer fruity, spiced, or nutty muffins, these guilt-free treats are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome snack or breakfast. Give them a try and see just how delicious healthy muffins can be!
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